The Best Daycare Centers in Lake Elmo, MN
Discover the best licensed daycare centers in Lake Elmo. Quality childcare with qualified staff and safe environments.
Top Daycare Centers in Lake Elmo
Primrose School of Lake Elmo
Primrose Schools
Primrose School of Lake Elmo offers a nationally accredited Balanced Learning® curriculum that blends purposeful play with nurturing guidance from trained teachers. The school features age-appropriate learning environments with dedicated infant, toddler, and preschool rooms, along with secure outdoor playgrounds. Their approach focuses on character development and social-emotional learning alongside academic readiness. Teachers hold early childhood credentials and receive ongoing professional development. The facility includes secure entry systems, comprehensive safety protocols, and nutritious meals prepared on-site. Parents appreciate the consistent communication through daily reports and regular parent-teacher conferences.
Daycare Services:
New Horizon Academy - Woodbury
New Horizon Academy
Located just minutes from Lake Elmo, this New Horizon Academy location provides comprehensive early childhood education with a play-based curriculum that incorporates STEM learning and literacy development. The center features secure, age-separated classrooms with observation windows, certified teachers with early childhood degrees, and low child-to-teacher ratios. Their safety measures include secured entry systems, regular safety drills, and thorough background checks for all staff. The curriculum focuses on kindergarten readiness through structured learning centers and hands-on activities. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, clean facilities, and detailed daily communication about their child's development and activities.
Daycare Services:
The Goddard School of Woodbury
Goddard Systems, Inc.
The Goddard School in nearby Woodbury serves Lake Elmo families with its F.L.EX.® (Fun Learning Experience) program that balances academic learning with creative play. The school features purpose-built classrooms, multiple playgrounds designed for different age groups, and enrichment programs including yoga, music, and foreign language exposure. All lead teachers hold four-year degrees in education or related fields and participate in ongoing professional development. The facility maintains rigorous health and safety standards including keypad entry systems, comprehensive cleaning protocols, and emergency preparedness plans. Parents highlight the school's strong communication, individualized attention to each child's needs, and excellent kindergarten preparation program.
Daycare Services:
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about daycare and childcare services in Lake Elmo, MN
What are the typical costs for full-time daycare or preschool in Lake Elmo, MN, and are there any local financial assistance programs?
In Lake Elmo, full-time daycare for an infant typically ranges from $1,400 to $1,800 per month, while toddler care is generally between $1,200 and $1,600 per month. Preschool programs often cost $900 to $1,300 monthly. These rates are influenced by factors like the provider's licensing (center vs. in-home), curriculum, and staff-to-child ratios. For financial assistance, Minnesota's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) is available for eligible families in Washington County. Additionally, some local centers may offer sibling discounts or sliding scale fees. It's also worth checking with employers in the area, as some may offer Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or partnerships with specific providers.
How long are waitlists for licensed daycare centers in Lake Elmo, and when should I start looking for a spot?
Waitlists in Lake Elmo can vary significantly but are common, especially for infant care and highly-rated centers. For infant rooms, it's not unusual to encounter waitlists of 6 to 12 months, or even longer. For toddler and preschool spots, waitlists may be shorter, around 3 to 6 months. Given Lake Elmo's family-oriented community and limited number of large centers compared to demand, it is strongly recommended to begin your search and get on waitlists as early as possible—ideally during pregnancy or at least 9-12 months before your needed start date. Many parents tour multiple facilities and secure spots on several non-binding waitlists to increase their options.
What are the key differences between licensed family childcare homes and larger childcare centers in Lake Elmo?
In Lake Elmo, you'll find both licensed family childcare homes (caring for up to 10 children in a residential setting) and childcare centers. Family homes often offer a more home-like, mixed-age environment with potentially more flexible hours and a single, consistent caregiver. They may be more affordable and have smaller group sizes. Centers, like those found in local commercial areas or churches, typically have structured classrooms by age, multiple staff with specialized roles, and often more extensive facilities (e.g., dedicated playgrounds, gyms). Centers must follow Minnesota's stricter staff-to-child ratios and licensing rules. Your choice may depend on your child's temperament, your need for flexibility, and your preference for a specific educational philosophy.
Are there any unique outdoor or nature-based childcare programs available in the Lake Elmo area?
Yes, Lake Elmo's semi-rural setting and proximity to parks and preserves support nature-based childcare options. Some local in-home providers and centers incorporate significant outdoor play and learning into their daily routines, taking advantage of the natural environment. Notably, the nearby **Lake Elmo Park Reserve** inspires outdoor-focused programming. While a fully forest-school-style program may be more common in the Twin Cities metro proper, several Lake Elmo providers emphasize outdoor exploration, gardening, and nature crafts. When touring, ask specifically about daily outdoor time, all-weather policies, and if they utilize any of the local trails or green spaces as part of their curriculum.
What should I look for regarding licensing and safety when evaluating a daycare in Lake Elmo, MN?
First, verify the provider is licensed by the State of Minnesota. You can check a facility's licensing status, history of violations, and complaint reports for free through the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Licensing Information Lookup website. Key safety aspects specific to Minnesota regulations include: proper staff-to-child ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:7 for toddlers), background checks for all staff, ongoing training in CPR/First Aid and SIDS prevention, and safe sleep practices for infants. During a tour in Lake Elmo, also ask about their emergency preparedness plans for severe weather common to the area, their pick-up/drop-off procedures, and how they secure the facility. Don't hesitate to ask for references from current parents.
Childcare Insights for Lake Elmo
As the school year winds down, many parents in Lake Elmo, Minnesota, find themselves searching for "summer daycare near me." This quest is about more than just supervision; it’s about finding a safe, engaging, and enriching environment where your child can thrive during the sunny months. The good news is that Lake Elno and its surrounding Washington County communities offer wonderful options that blend structured care with the unique joys of a Minnesota summer.
When beginning your search, timing is everything. Popular programs in our area can fill up quickly, often by early spring. Starting your inquiries now, even if it feels early, is one of the most practical steps you can take. Consider what "summer care" means for your family. Are you looking for a full-time, week-long program to cover working hours, or a part-time camp experience focused on outdoor adventure? Many local providers, from dedicated daycare centers to community education programs through Stillwater Area Schools, offer flexible schedules to accommodate different needs. A key local consideration is transportation; some programs offer busing from central Lake Elmo locations, while others require drop-off and pick-up. Planning this logistics piece is crucial for a smooth summer.
The natural beauty of Lake Elmo is a tremendous asset for summer programs. Look for childcare options that prioritize outdoor time, taking advantage of our parks, trails, and nearby Lake Elmo Park Reserve. The best summer daycare will incorporate nature-based play, water activities, and perhaps even local field trips to the Lake Elmo Library or a nearby farm. This connection to our community not only entertains children but helps them build a deeper appreciation for where they live. Don’t hesitate to ask potential providers about their daily schedule—how much time is spent outdoors, what their stormy-day alternatives are, and if they incorporate any local themes or visits.
Finally, trust your instincts as a Lake Elmo parent. Schedule visits to a few top choices. Observe how the staff interacts with the children, ask about their safety protocols and staff-to-child ratios, and get a feel for the atmosphere. Talk to other parents at the playground or through local community groups; personal recommendations are invaluable. Remember, the ideal summer daycare should ease your mind and spark joy for your child. It should be a place where they make new friends, try new activities, and return home happily tired from a day of summer fun. By focusing on programs that understand the rhythm of our community and the value of our natural surroundings, you can find a summer solution in Lake Elmo that feels less like a necessity and more like a welcome part of your family’s seasonal memories.